Southend United head coach Kieron Dyer is embracing the pressure of management following a flawless start to the National League season. Speaking to reporters this week, the former England midfielder opened up about his new role and the club's immediate ambitions.
Dyer has guided Southend to three consecutive victories, placing them second in the table with nine points. Their strong opening includes seven goals scored and only two conceded, giving them a healthy +5 goal difference. They currently sit just one point behind early leaders Boreham Wood.
Appointed in June, Dyer is in his first managerial position after coaching roles at Ipswich Town and Chesterfield. He admitted to initial self-doubt but said he has grown into the responsibility. "The responsibility you have of the team, the club, the office staff. I feel that I have to represent them right," Dyer told reporters. He described the mental toll, sometimes going to sleep early, but added, "I wouldn't want it any other way. I'm enjoying the responsibility."
Dyer credited former Chesterfield manager Paul Cook with convincing him he was ready for the step up. "Two, three years ago I didn't have the maturity to take on the responsibility of looking after players," he said. He now views his emotional coaching style as a potential strength.
The club's current positive mood follows a turbulent period. Southend were relegated from the English Football League five years ago, ending a 101-year stay in the top four divisions. They came close to an immediate return in June 2025, losing the National League play-off final 3-2 to Oldham after extra time. Last season ended in a play-off semi-final defeat to Scunthorpe United.
Despite leading the team to FA Trophy success at Wembley in May, long-serving manager Kevin Maher was dismissed after an end-of-season review. That decision paved the way for Dyer's appointment. The new boss is clear about his objective, stating, "I feel this club belongs in the EFL and its my job to get them there."
Southend's perfect record of three wins from three games provides a solid foundation. The team recruited ten new players over the summer, and Dyer highlighted the impact of a large home crowd. "To get over 8,000 fans in the first home match was such a lift for the players," he said. Building on this early momentum is vital with 43 league matches remaining.
Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matches on our fixtures page. The current standings show a tight early title race, while details on the summer arrivals are available in our squad section.
Dyer has set his sights firmly on achieving promotion. He believes Southend is the biggest club in the National League and recalls their past in the Championship. The strong start is a significant boost, but consistency over the long campaign will be key. The early goal difference and defensive record are encouraging signs for the challenges ahead. If the team maintains its form, Dyer believes the season could be memorable. "If we can get them on board early, this could be some ride," he concluded.
